Aerobic Capacity of Coal Miners in India
Author Information
Author(s): Ratnadeep Saha, Netai Chandra Dey, Amalendu Samanta, Rajib Biswas
Hypothesis
What is the maximum aerobic capacity of underground coal miners in India?
Conclusion
The average maximum aerobic capacity of underground coal miners in India is lower than that of other occupational groups.
Supporting Evidence
- The average VO2max of the miners was found to be 36.6 mL/kg/min.
- Older miners showed a significant decline in aerobic capacity compared to younger miners.
- The study found a negative correlation between age and VO2max.
Takeaway
This study looked at how fit coal miners are by measuring how much oxygen they can use while working. It found that older miners are not as fit as younger ones.
Methodology
Ninety-eight healthy miners were randomly selected and their maximum aerobic capacity was assessed using a step test protocol measuring heart rates and oxygen consumption.
Limitations
The study only included miners from three underground mines in West Bengal, which may not represent all coal miners in India.
Participant Demographics
Miners aged 23 to 58 years, with a mean age of 41.3 years, and a minimum work experience of five years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p ≤ 0.001
Statistical Significance
p ≤ 0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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